Spent any time on the Internet and you’re likely to encounter a phenomenon I call “haterism,” which had real consequences for our empathy and compassion. So what is it, and what can we do about it? ▶️ youtu.be/EXeBMzEZbsY

I know it's late notice, but if you're around on a Saturday, come see me at this San Antonio Barnes & Noble for a book signing! I'd love to catch up and chat!

Baking week 2: Fallen chocolate cakes, chosen and baked by the 9-year-old.

HOUSTON FRIENDS! I'll be in your area next Saturday, 3 p.m., for a book signing and conversation about my latest book. Come out and see me at Brazos Bookstore. Details below.

Love graphic novels? In this video I share a fantastic, funny young adult graphic novel that everyone should read--because discrimination, sisterhood, and Disney World. ▶️ youtu.be/B9ImIb6lpvk

No one likes to lose. But in this video, I examine some of the things we can learn from disappointments and setbacks—in writing and in life. ▶️ youtu.be/DgPGEaETv8o

When we’re taught to hide mental illnesses, we come to see them (and ourselves) as shameful. In this video, I talk about the power of sharing about our mental illnesses and how it can peel away stereotypes, lessen shame, and empower people like us. ▶️ youtu.be/JRaK2Js4Cpo

Writing is much easier when we’re writing about things we care about. So how do we figure out what we care about? Well, I have some suggestions for you in this video. ▶️ youtu.be/TrKg1iZBqTw

THE FIRST MAGNIFICENT SUMMER is available in paperback at Barnes & Noble!!! I'm hanging out today from 1pm-4pm at Barnes & Noble San Pedro (San Pedro Ave. & Loop 410). Swing by and say hey if you're in the area.

Women live with so many of spoken and unspoken rules and expectations according to society, and it makes for an exhausting life. In this video, I discuss some of them and conclude what most of us conclude: we’re done with all that. ▶️ youtu.be/OuvnbtI9MzU

Ever noticed how most menus now have the calories counts of meals listed right there? This is great for some—but for many who struggle with anorexia or disordered eating, it can be a dangerous trigger. ▶️ youtu.be/4P-O6t58eww

If you see me this year and wonder why I’m weepy it’s because three in high school (one a senior) two in middle school last one in elementary and where did the time go is a weepy wondering

Did you or your kids have a favorite song of the summer? Here are some great book recommendations based on which one was their favorite! Authors/illustrators: Caroline Palmer 🌺 Alexandra Alessandri (updates only) 🌺 Rachel (R.L.) Toalson

Excited to announce that I'm now represented by Authors Unbound for all my speaking engagements (school visits, library visits, author appearances). So if you want me in a professional capacity, get in touch! Check out my page here: authorsunbound.com/r-l-toalson/

Studies show women still do the bulk of home and childcare work. In this video, I share why I’ve never been content with traditional gender roles and how sharing labor and support in a partnership is vital to women reaching their full potential. ▶️ youtu.be/UnMIMNezqd4

Binary thinking means we only see in absolutes: black-and white thinking. Only two possibilities. Good or evil. Right or wrong. In this video, I discuss why binary thinking can be problematic and how we can work to root it out of our own thinking. ▶️ youtu.be/7WbnuKGRYnA